Why Is Acadia National Park Special? Know The Things To Do

BY  Barsha May 27, 2025

Few Roman emblems are more recognizable and evocative than that of the gladiator.  These violent men—half athlete, half captive, half myth—held Roman crowds for centuries in bloody battles that were spectacle as much as they were a matter of conquest.  But who were the gladiators in Rome, in reality? What motivated thousands of onlookers to celebrate their fate in the arena? And where can you still sense the beat of their legacy today?  Further, Rome, the capital of Italy, is about to host the 2025 World Travel & Tourism Council’s (WTTC) summit. Also, the historical places to visit in Rome play a vital role in maintaining Italy’s position as the number one travel destination in the world.  If you are not in the know, Italy has just won the laurel of the top luxury tourism destination for 2025 at the International Luxury Travel Market (ILTM) Latin America.  So, in this Tour and Travel Guide, we will find out the gladiators of Rome and how they can be the highlight for your next vacation to Rome.  At the same time, we will talk about the historical places of Rome and why they make the city the most preferred destination in the world.  From Funerary Rites To Public Spectacle: The Gladiators Of Rome And Their Timeless Appeal The origin of the gladiators in Rome is very much intertwined with sacrifice and ritual in the natural world.  Ancient accounts indicate that gladiatorial fighting was once performed in remembrance of the dead, particularly renowned figures from society.  These events later became popular for entertaining or intimidating the masses.  By the Roman Republic, games of gladiators already were a political weapon: a show of grandeur and munificence employed to win the favor of the masses.  The Colosseum: Heart Of The Arena The Colosseum, or Flavian Amphitheater, was the spectacular arena for the events. Finished in 80 AD by Emperor Titus, it could accommodate as many as 50,000 spectators and saw colossal games which lasted for 100 successive days at times.  Gladiators drew swords here, man-eating animals from Africa and Asia were brought out, and emperors gained or lost the people's favor in the arena of blood.  So, the Colosseum, an icon of ancient Roman civilization, is more than just an architectural marvel. The use of concrete and innovative techniques in the Colosseum was unique.  However, the more unique aspect of the place is how it witnessed and has carried the history of the gladiators of Rome and a particular way of Roman living over the years.  In other words, the next time you visit the Colosseum, one of the best things to do in Rome, you will have a new perspective as a traveler.  And yet, glorious as the Colosseum stands, its actual history truly comes alive only when viewed in context—through the unseen narratives of the Ludus Magnus (the main gladiator school), the pre-fight rituals, and the political maneuvering behind each bout.  Want to Experience The Legacy Of Gladiators In Rome Like Never Before?  If you're planning a visit to Rome, seeing the Colosseum is a must, but walking around its outer walls is just scratching the surface.  For a deeper, more immersive journey into the world of ancient warriors, book a Colosseum-focused city tour with Golf Cart Tours.  Their small-group, open-air tours are led by expert guides who blend storytelling, history, and modern comfort.  No exhausting uphill hikes or crowded buses. Just an engaging, up-close experience that brings Rome’s gladiatorial past to life.  Your guide will take you beyond the arena to the key sites tied to the games, including Janiculum Hill, Capitoline Hill, and the Forum, sharing insights you won’t find in guidebooks. The best part? The Golf Cart Tours team knows how to make history unforgettable—even for kids and families. You’ll leave not just with photos, but with stories. Life, Death, And The Role Of The Gladiators In Rome  Most of the gladiators, though, were captive males, captives of war, or convicted criminals to be killed in the arena. Yet, not all. Free men also came into the profession of their own free will, attracted by the prospect of fame, wealth, or even salvation.  These volunteers, known as Auctorati, were typically contracted for several years, with service agreements that would make them both legendary and infamous.  In the schools of training (Ludi), gladiators became the machines to kill. They were divided into specialized classes according to combat style and weaponry: Retiarii (net and trident) Murmillones (sword and buckler) Secutores Thraeces, and others.  Despite their cruelty, gladiators were popular. They had girlfriends, they had fans, and they even had political power.  Gladiators' faces were found in mosaics, in graffiti, and even on coins. Some, such as Spartacus or Flamma, even became legends.  The Historical Places In Rome Are Much Beyond The Arena The gladiators themselves are no more, but their legend still towers over the Eternal City.  Each cobblestone street and crumbling ruin holds a tale, and some of the biggest are the ones where the gladiators fought, breathed, and died under the bellow of 50,000 Roman throats.  However, the historical attractions in Rome are beyond the arena. Here are the other crown jewels.  1. Sistine Chapel: The House Of The Last Judgment  The Sistine Chapel in Rome features "The Last Judgment," a famous artwork by Michelangelo. Furthermore, it has breathtaking frescoes.  2. St. Peter's Basilica: The Most Revered Catholic Church In The World Though located in the Vatican City, St. Peter's Basilica is one of the iconic religious and historical landmarks in Rome.  Furthermore, it is the most important Catholic church, and it is the burial site of Saint Peter. He was one of the apostles of Jesus Christ, and he was the first pope.  Moreover, the Renaissance and Baroque architecture of the church makes it a place of awe and wonder.  3. Piazza Navona You cannot miss a visit to Piazza Navona, which is a public square in Rome. It has palatial buildings and baroque fountains.  So, there is always a lively atmosphere around the square. 

BY  Abdul Aziz Feb 13, 2024

The majority of people from the Pacific Northwest will tell you that the outside world simply does not understand them. Many outsiders have the impression that Washington is a rainy city that lives off lattes, complete with techies and tree huggers. Yes, it has all of that, but the state's vast, unmatched wilderness, difficult to find anywhere else, is what really defines it. To really understand Washington national parks, you need to go beyond the Seattle city limits. Its famous national and state parks will make you speechless. Each presents an entirely distinct interpretation of the 18th largest state in the union. The three national parks in Washington are so large and varied that residents return year after year to explore more areas. Additionally, the more than 100 state parks are comparable, with lesser-known areas offering deserted campsites and uncrowded trails. In addition, there are deep fjords, moss-draped archipelagos for island hopping, snowy volcanic peaks, and canyons carved by Ice Age glaciers. There are also temperate rainforest trails, sea stacks off misty shores, and an abundance of waterfalls. To put it simply, you may want to consider a yearly park pass. National Parks In Washington Washington State National Parks are so much more than what they get credit for. Are you curious about what secrets Washington is hiding? We are listing the national parks in Washington state below. Make sure to put them on your to-do list. You will be surprised by the stuff you had left previously undiscovered in Washington. Moran State Park There are few places in the Pacific Northwest that compare to the delightfully remote Moran State Park. It is a haven for wild island getaways. Being the most populous island in the San Juan archipelago, Orcas Island has dense forests. It is a popular outdoor recreation destination for island hoppers. It offers multiple freshwater lakes for swimming and boating. The Washington State Ferries are the only way to get here; they connect to Seattle, San Juan, and other nearby launch points. If you're up for exercise, then consider hiking or biking up Mount Constitution, the highest point on the islands. Bring boots for the 38 miles of trails within the park. In order to see the interpretive center and enjoy the views, you can also drive up to the summit. Cape Disappointment State Park It's hard to estimate how many dad jokes went like, "Well, it's definitely not a disappointment," as they entered Cape Disappointment State Park. And it's not. The park, located in the southwestern region of Washington, boasts dramatic views of the Pacific Ocean and the powerful Columbia River. It also has moody beaches and windswept sea cliffs. You can tour decommissioned installations like Gun Battery Harvey Allen and the remnants of Fort Canby. It was once a strategically significant military site. The park's eight miles of trails lead to its two operational lighthouses, Cape Disappointment Lighthouse and North Head Lighthouse. They are arguably the most photographed sights in the area. Palouse Falls Palouse Falls was Washington's official state waterfall in 2014 after state legislators approved a bill from local students. The region is well-known for its abundance of waterfalls. The fall's special scenic location demonstrates why it was given that recognition. This 200-foot waterfall in the Palouse River Canyon cascades down basalt cliffs. It is one of the last remnants of the Ice Age floods. It should come as no surprise that this little state park is all about admiring the scenery. The park has three official vantage points. A short 0.1-mile ADA-accessible walk leads to one of the viewpoints. Dry Falls State Park The moss-covered forests west of the Cascade Range appear vastly different from the dry canyon-like settings of Sun Lakes–Dry Falls State Park. The park's striking cliffs are the result of the melting of the Ice Age. It created the bleak landscape of eastern Washington through ancient floods. It is a single stop on the multi-state National Geologic Trail: Ice Age Floods. The 3.5-mile precipice known as Dry Falls, which was formerly home to a massive waterfall, is the park's most striking feature. As the name suggests, the falls dried up long ago, but water is still a major attraction here. Boating, swimming, and water skiing are all popular in shimmering lakes. During the summer, the only thing breaking up the endless blue sky is the cliffs. Larrabee State Park Bellingham's hippies and college students frequently head toward Larrabee State Park when they want to go hiking. This is the first Washington State Park, established in 1915, and it protects a large portion of the Chuckanut Mountains' coastline. Moderate hikes to Clayton Beach's pebbled shores and Fragrance Lake, one of the park's many picturesque lakes, are popular routes. Mountain biking is another popular activity in the area, and Larrabee offers a variety of trails suitable for all skill levels. It includes steeper technical slopes that are best left to the pros. Of the many national parks in Washington, Larrabee will offer the most fun-filled experience. Lime Kiln Point State Park The San Juan archipelago is well-known for the year-round orca whale population that calls these chilly waters home. Visit Lime Kiln Point. The Washington State Parks's team likes to call it one of the world's top locations for whale watching, to witness them in action. And they’re not wrong. For views of the orcas and other whale species, which are most commonly spotted from May through September, climb the elegant 1919 lighthouse. This includes porpoises and pods of gray, humpback, and minke whales. Located on a rocky outcropping on San Juan Island's western shore, this small day-use park has a seasonal interpretive center that is usually open from late spring to summer. Deception Pass State Park This state park in Washington receives the highest number of visitors for two main reasons. The first is the range of outdoor activities it offers close to Seattle. It is a little over an hour’s drive if the traffic is not too heavy. The second is the 360-degree view that can be obtained from the two-span arched Deception Pass Bridge. It towers over the channel, which is a more romantic and compelling reason to visit. Deception Pass State Park encompasses two adjacent islands, Fidalgo and Whidbey. They are popular both for camping and day-use marine adventures. Three freshwater lakes and the surrounding saltwater are accessible from five boat launches. Visit this place to kayak around the coves of the islands, explore their rocky shorelines, and trek through the old-growth forests on a 38-mile network of trails. Beacon Rock State Park On the north bank of the largest river in the Pacific Northwest, Washington offers a more serene and visually appealing experience than Oregon. It is home to a majority of the Gorge's well-known as well as congested attractions. The overlooked Beacon Rock State Park offers expansive, slightly less crowded views of the national scenic area. Although Oregonians take great pride in their state, even they will admit that Beacon Rock is one of the best day hikes you can do. Within an hour's drive of the City of Roses. Enjoy expansive views of the gorge after ascending the basalt monolith via a mile of winding switchbacks and staircases. Locals cringe at this pun, but the views from the top are, well, gorgeous. If you are looking for national parks in Oregon and Washington, then this is your cue. Olympic Park If you can only spend time in one Washington park. Situated in the northwest, then choose Olympic Park. Corner of the state on the Olympic Peninsula, this vast wilderness has glacier-capped mountains, mossy rain forests, and tide pools. Rarely will any other of the national parks in Washington match up to the beauty of the Olympic. Except for Hawaii, the Olympic Peninsula gets more rainfall than all other location in the United States. It protrudes into the Pacific and is divided from the mainland by the Strait of Juan de Fuca and Puget Sound. This is the most glaciated US landscape outside of Alaska, with over 250 glaciers fed by the snowfall that occurs high in the 2,000-meter-plus Olympic mountains. The vast ice fields feed several significant rivers, which then meander towards the Pacific through temperate rainforests. Travelers can follow the Bogachiel River inland to the Hoh rainforest from its Pacific outlet at La Push to see the highlights. The following day, go in a northeastern direction and ascend to Hurricane Ridge, which offers a stunning vista of the Olympic mountain range. Those with extra time will want to soak in the Sol Duc hot springs and take a scenic stroll to Marymere Falls. Lake Crescent and Sol Duc offer lodging and the park is home to many campgrounds. Wrapping Up Yoking in the center of the Pacific Northwest, Washington State is famous for its breathtaking scenery and varied ecosystems. Locals and visitors alike have a variety of outdoor activities to choose from, ranging from a relaxing ferry ride to the iconic San Juan Islands to a strenuous hike to the Cascade Range peaks. If you have thoughts to share or questions to ask about national parks in Washington, please leave a comment below. We would love to hear from you! Read Also: 7 Fun Things To Do In The Great Smoky Mountains National Park Top 12 National Parks In Florida That You Must Visit Best 10 National Parks In New Mexico To Visit

BY  Sibashree Sep 10, 2024

The year 2023 fall saw the return of Lake Manly or the Death Valley National Park lake. The Badwater Basin is the lowest point in the Death Valley, as well as the entire North America. It is located 282 feet below sea level, and today, the world knows it as a dry and salted flat.   However, a massive downpour caused by Hurricane Hilary in fall 2023 and the “Atmospheric River Effect” this year made the dried lake appear magically. Lastly, the lake had a resurrection in 2005, and suddenly, this trace of life in the barren land looks and feels surreal.   But why did this lake appear all of a sudden? Will it stay? What can you see while exploring the area near Lake Manly? This article tries to find answers to all your questions. Further, there is a sneak peek into what NASA shows about the ghostly and ancient lake at Death Valley National Park.   Has The Ancient Death Valley National Park Lake Returned?  Yes, the ancient Death Valley National Park lake made a comeback. Hurricane Hilary hit Death Valley on 19th-21st August 2023, and its remnants caused more rainfall than the average yearly rainfall (2 inches) at the national park.   Further, a Californian storm or the atmospheric river effect on 4th-7th February 2024 caused 1.5 inches of rainfall. Altogether, the amount of rainfall in this park from the second half of 2023 and the first half of 2024 was 4.9 inches.1   This sudden and unprecedented rainfall caused the rise of Death Valley National Park Lake. In mid-February 2024, the lake had one-foot deep water. Further, it was 6 miles long and 3 miles wide.   NASA has published a series of three images of Lake Manly. The pictures showed the difference between the barren, salted land in July and the waterlogged area in August after the rampage of Hurricane Hilary and Atmospheric River. Further, the pictures also depicted that the lake was almost the same size in August 2023 and February 2024.   Moreover, according to the latest update in April 2024, the lake is getting a steady number of visitors. The reflection of the surrounding peaks looks out of the world in the tranquil water of the lake. In addition, thanks to the rainfall and the resurgence of the lake, the national park had an abundance of wildflowers this season.   Elyscia Letterman2, an interpretive park ranger with the National Park Service (NPS), has mentioned,   “It's quite beautiful, especially at sunrise and sunset when you have these beautiful reflections from the mountains around the lake. There's some snow on the mountaintops. So, the reflection of the snow-capped mountains on the water is very beautiful. It doesn't feel like you're in Death Valley.”   Again, the Amargosa River keeps feeding the Badwater Basin area from the south. With its increased water level, it can help the Death Valley National Park lake to stay. Having said that, let’s discuss a few details about how Hurricane Hillary and the atmospheric river effect impacted the lake formation and overall national park.   Hurricane Hillary Hits Death Valley National Park  https://www.instagram.com/p/C2AgKKwLHMn/ The Death Valley National Park experienced flooding after a massive downpour started at Gower Gulch near Zabriskie Point. The rainfall took place on 20th August 2023, and the crew started assessing the havoc in the park on 21st August 2023.   Thanks to the flooding, Lake Manly made a comeback. However, some of the backcountry roads were completely washed. In addition, there was a major loss of pavements and undercutting.   “The lake was deep enough to kayak for a few weeks after Hurricane Hilary, but unfortunately people couldn’t come enjoy it then. Every road in the park was damaged by flash floods, and it took two months to open the first road into the park. Now most of the main roads are open, so it’s a great time to come visit!”   - Ranger Abby Wines on the return of the Death Valley National Park Lake after Hurricane Hillary  Atmospheric River Effect In Death Valley National Park  The Death Valley National Park was already recovering from the impact of Hurricane Hilary. Suddenly, in February 2024, a Californian storm or the atmospheric river effect hit the national park. The storm fed the Badwater Basin with water, which enhanced the temporary lake.  This storm also pulled down snow from the mountain peaks, and it came down to around 4000 feet in the park.   Will The Ancient Death Valley National Park Lake Stay?   Despite the endorheic nature of the Badwater Basin, the Death Valley National Park Lake is transitional or ephemeral in nature. The evaporation rate here is higher than the water feed it gets. However, the downpours caused by the August 2023 and February 2024 natural calamities have brought all the changes. We now have a lake that shows some potential to stay.   Again, the Amargosa River has flowing water at a high level. So, the basin is getting constantly fed by water from the south. As a result, the lake still stands in the driest place for a span of more than 6 months. In 2005, when the lake reappeared for the last time, it only lasted a week. This time, there is a new scenario around the lake and how long the water will last.  Having said that, nothing specific can be mentioned about how long the lake will stay as the rate of evaporation is still high. Even as I write this article, I realize that the lake may not remain fit for kayaking for long. Still, the lake is likely to exist for some time, offering visitors a renewed site of attraction in the national park.   Overall, the resurgence of the lake and its stay is an “extremely rare event,” as mentioned by the National Park Service authority.   Exploring The Death Valley National Park Lake Area   There is no denying that all roads in the Death Valley National Park lead to the ancient lake, which has come to life. Once you are done taking photographs or seeing the reflection of the surrounding peaks in the water, you can take a walk around the area.   The shores of the lake have a white boundary wall, which is formed because of a high concentration of salt. Further, the Panamint Range, Black Mountains, and barren land surrounding the lake offer you an other-worldly experience.   Moreover, you can explore the nearby looking points in the park to have diverse views of the place. Enjoy your time at the oasis of Death Valley!   What NASA Found About The Death Valley National Park Lake? (April 2024)  NASA showed the change in the Death Valley National Park Lake from February to March using SWOT, a U.S.-French Surface Water and Ocean Topography satellite. In just six weeks, the water level came down to 1.5 feet from 3 feet.   The NASA report has further highlighted the temporary nature of the lake and the fact that a gust of a strong wind can move this lake by a couple of miles.  Final Words   With “billions of gallons of water,” the Death Valley National Park lake is alive again. The sapphire blue water in the midst of a barren land shows the magic of nature. In February 2024, the lake became a go-to destination for kayaking, thanks to its 1-foot-deep water. However, by March, the lake was closed to opening, and in April, the lake was transformed into a waterbody of a few inches’ depth.   This has also become a tourist attraction thanks to the most amazing sunrise and sunset views.  Further, there is no assurance or specific information available about how long the lake will last. So, make it to the Death Valley National Park till the lake lasts. Also, don’t forget to share your experience as you explore the Badwater Basin area around the ghostly (now alive) lake. Also read Connemara National Park: Where Guglielmo Marconi Invented The First Full Duplex Radio. You Can’t MISS These Best Songs for Instagram Travel Reels (Real People, Real Choice 2024) Lake Clark National Park And Preserve: Very Few Know How It Preserves The Alaskan Spirit And Culture.